On Wednesday, April 22, HANC High School came alive with blue and white as students and faculty gathered to celebrate Yom HaAtzmaut—Israel’s Independence Day—with a day filled with spirit, pride, and purpose. The day’s events included a deeply meaningful tekes, high-energy chagigah, a speaker, and Israel-themed lunch and shuk that will long be remembered by all who participated.
The celebration began with tefilah, followed by a spirited, all-school Hallel led by Rabbi Judah Hulkower, setting the tone for a day of gratitude and connection. Rabbi Tsvi Selengut, HANC Rebbe and Rabbi of Ohab Zedek in Belle Harbour, delivered a moving and insightful reflection on the significance of living in a modern Medinas Yisrael, and our responsibility as Jews to strengthen it through Torah, mitzvot, and acts of kindness. Before heading to Limudei Kodesh classes, students enjoyed blue and white cookies.
Later that morning, the program shifted to another highlight of the day. a vibrant and unforgettable chagigah led by the dynamic Zalman Pollack and Michel Krohn on keyboard. Students from all grade levels joined together in spirited dancing and celebration alongside their rebbeim and moros. The energy in the room was electric, culminating in a heartfelt kumzitz of “L’Shana Haba’a B’Yerushalayim.”
After working up an appetite, students enjoyed a festive Israeli-style falafel lunch by Grapevine Caterers, complete with warm pita, fresh Israeli salad, creamy techina, and crisp watermelon, prepared by Doni of Grapevine Caterers. During lunch, students took part in an Israeli-style shuk organized by our Israel Action Committee, where students walked from booth to booth and enjoyed candy, pickles, bracelet-making, and even Israel trivia.
Later in the day, students heard from Rabbi Larry Rothwachs, Rav of Congregation Beth Aaron in Teaneck, NJ, on his family’s decision to make Aliya next year.
A heartfelt thank you to Director of Student Life, Rabbi Hulkower who organized such a memorable and impactful Yom HaAtzmaut.
